Leonard Marks

This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.

Victor Riesel opens with remarks, then introduces Leonard Marks, director of the United States Information Agency.

Marks discusses the state of press in the United States and abroad. He notes censorship in other countries and the policy of the United States to encourage freedom of the press.

He speaks about the United State's efforts to reach out to foreign nations. For example - young people sent to Russia to teach them about American culture, and an American magazine. 60,000 magazines are made available each year and are sold out within a year. Some newsagents rent the magazine rather than selling it.

Marks speaks at length of China and the dangers of a closed society. He contrasts China to Russia. In China the citizens cannot access any aspects of American culture.

He goes on to discuss United State's transparency in space exploration - admitting failures and holding off launches when human life was at risk.

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